Statement of Diversity in Admissions

We seek to build a diverse and inclusive community consistent with the biblical vision that: “There is no longer Jew or Greek, there is no longer slave or free, there is no longer male and female: for all of you are one in Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:28). In the spirit of this theological vision Duke Divinity affirms the educational benefits of diversity. Pedagogically speaking, it is our educational judgment and experience that students who study in a diverse environment display stronger critical thinking skills, greater motivation to seek relationships across diverse communities, and better preparation to contribute to wider society. Duke Divinity affirms that diversity is crucial to fostering a rich learning environment and to promoting its mission to form wise, faithful, hopeful, and loving leaders able to serve increasingly diverse contexts, churches, and educational institutions across this nation and the world.

Consistent with that commitment, Duke Divinity employs a holistic review of applications. We give careful attention to qualities known to contribute to successful completion of the degree program, promise for ministry, and enrichment of our student body. No single factor leads to an admission decision of acceptance or declination. Key factors in the admissions process at Duke Divinity include promise for ministry, clarity of vocation, and a strong academic record. Moreover, the Divinity School embraces and is guided by the nondiscrimination policy of Duke University, which states:

Duke University is committed to encouraging and sustaining a learning and work community that is free from prohibited discrimination and harassment. The university prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, sex, genetic information, or age in the administration of its educational policies, admission policies, financial aid, employment, or any other university program or activity. The university also makes good faith efforts to recruit, employ and promote qualified minorities, women, individuals with disabilities, and veterans. It admits qualified students to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students.*

In keeping with our commitment to diversity, we look at a range of factors that promote student success and enable the creation of a student body with many varied perspectives and backgrounds.